Tuesday, February 13, 2007 Quijano: Be like Mike By Jingo Quijano The last round
IF you follow the local boxing scene, then you have probably seen him on TV, assisting his more illustrious dad, the grand patron of Cebu boxing, Antonio “ALA” Aldeguer in numerous boxing promotions. Or you’ve probably spied him ringside at a local boxing event, his handsome mug ably complemented by his lovely wife Christine Inocencio-Aldeguer.
It’s been a long time since I caught up with Michael Aldeguer, but we actually go way back. We are both alumni of Sacred Heart School for Boys and what I remember most about Michael back when we were still wearing polo barongs and blue slacks were his daredevil drives to the hoop. A reliable backcourt general blessed with superb basketball abilities, Mike truly was natural athlete, much like his siblings Jay and Chris, who happens to be a tri-athlete.
Mike and I share a common passion for boxing but Michael’s commitment goes beyond what any boxing fan or journalist can hope to accomplish. You see, Michael grew up surrounded by boxers who also lived in their very same house under the strict and firm guidance of his father. To him, they are not his friends, but his brothers.
Now a family man with two girls and one boy in tow, and with several business interests requiring his utmost attention, Mike nonetheless took time out to graciously share with the Last Round his thoughts on some current boxing issues.
Where did you attend college and what kind of business interests are you presently involved in?
I finished college at the University of San Carlos with a Business Administration degree. I am the President and CEO of Bisaya Ispisyal, Wacky, Trademark Customized Apparel and Accessories, Action Sports Specialized Sports Uniforms and Pandelicious.
What kind of work do you do for ALA boxing?
I assist my father in managing the boxers locally and internationally
How long do you see yourself doing this?
This is a lifetime commitment for me. I grew up watching my father dedicate himself for the love of the sport and helping the less fortunate kids find a better future through the sport of boxing. It is a huge responsibility to sustain what my father has started as it entails a lot of sacrifice and patience. I know that my father has done so much for Philippine boxing. With him as my mentor, I hope I can continue to carry on the vision and legacy that my father has started.
Who is the most impressive among your current crop of young talents?
I am most impressed with “Boomboom” Bautista and “Z” Gorres. Another talent to watch out for is AJ " Bazooka" Banal, we feel he has a bright future ahead of him. There's a new kid, only 16 years old, but is slowly gaining ground and definitely has a good future - Joseph Omanz. Both Banal and Omanz will be fighting in the undercard of “Boomboom” and “Z” this Feb. 24 in Cebu City Sports Complex.
How has it been promoting the Gorres-Montiel fight?
It is exciting but also entails a lot of hard work; it has been a dream to hold a World Championship fight in Cebu because we feel that Cebu and the Cebuanos deserve such a prestigious event.
Any predictions on the fight?
It is hard to predict since Fernando Montiel of Mexico is a respected world champion and will definitely try to hold on to his belt. We are confident that it will be a great fight because Z has worked so hard to bring the Championship belt to our country. With “Boomboom” he will be facing a WBC Latino champion in Feider Villoria of Columbia who is rated under three world boxing bodies. All I can say is that it will the biggest test for “Boomboom” and “Z” come Feb. 24.
Do you think Manny Pacquiao made the right decision in signing with Top Rank?
It is very hard to say if Manny Pacquiao made a right or wrong decision in signing up with Top rank. He may have his own reasons why he chose Top rank over Golden Boy.
Thanks Mike for your time. My fellow last rounders can rest in the thought that Cebu’s boxing future is in your capable hands.
The Last Rounds. Today’s last rounds are on my good friend Valerie Macapagal who is celebrating her birthday this week and on another Mike-Mike Dial who reads this column all the way from Sacramento. Mike enjoys The Last Round and calls this writer a “professional journalist.” Gee Mike, I wish I were. I’m a lawyer by profession but I’m glad you mistook me for one. Cheers!
